A trip down memory lane; a look at the bar where band Alabama got its start

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW)- Thursday is day one of Carolina Country Music Fest, and as headliner Alabama is getting ready to take the stage News 13 went down memory lane to the local bar where they got started.

The Bowery is known as the 8th wonder of the world and where super group Alabama considers home.
The band started playing there in 1973, and at that time they went by the name Wild Country, but later changed it to Alabama and left in 1980.

Owner Victor Shamah was there the whole time.

“They’re good family people. We’re a family to them, and they’re a family to us,” said Shamah.
Like any home, The Bowery is full decades of Alabama’s memories

“This is before Alabama got signed with RCA records. Right here is the album that came out right before it in 1979,” said Shamah.

Shamah doesn’t mind walking back down memory lane.

“We always text each, other do you remember this, do you remember that, and it’s fun to go back in history,” said Shamah.

The band doesn’t mind either. Alabama never forgot where they came from, and while News 13 was there, Teddy Gentry walked into his old stomping grounds and caught up with friends, and fans.

Alabama is celebrating their 50th anniversary for thousands across the street from where it all started.

“It’s unbelievable. It’s dynamic. We love it. We love to have them there,” said Shamah.

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